Study: The University of Wyoming Contributes to the State’s Economy

The University of Wyoming receives nearly $130 million in external funding annually, creating more than 2,200 jobs and stimulating $129 million in value-added economic activity around the state, according to a new study.

The report, titled “Economic Footprint of the University of Wyoming,” quantifies economic impacts that would not occur in Wyoming but for the university’s presence -- including externally funded research support, direct expenditures by nonresident students and visitors, and spin-outs and startup businesses directly resulting from UW research.

The report also outlines the wide variety of UW activities around the state, concluding that while the university is a powerful engine supporting the state’s growth, its impacts extend far beyond its economic footprint.

“UW plays a significant role by attracting and spending money that otherwise would not flow to Wyoming, but it also adds great value to the state by providing broad access to educational opportunities and continually working with our communities to solve problems,” says Bill Gern, UW’s vice president for research and economic development. “UW’s impact on the economic development of the state is much broader than just technical economic impacts.”

The report, commissioned by the UW Office of Research and Economic Development, was written by economist Anne Alexander, associate dean and director of UW International Programs, and Roger Coupal, head of UW’s Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics.